Sydney’s iconic waterside hotel receives a spectacular makeover. Yelena Smetannikov takes a peek inside.

The Park Hyatt Hotel in Sydney’s Circular Quay has recently undergone the biggest redesign in its 20 year history.

The complete revamp of the interiors had the hotel’s doors closed for nearly a year, between April 2011 and February 2012.

The original 1989 Ancher Mortlock Woolley building has been retained, with a new level added to the rooftop.

BARStudio developed the concept of creating an intimate waterfront retreat, reminiscent of a luxury home on the water, with architecture by HASSELL.

 

“The language of residential architecture and design has driven the comprehensive re-design of the hotel,” says Felicity Beck of BARStudio.

Suites have been designed with maximal views towards Circular Quay, the Opera House, or the Harbour Bridge.

 

Full height windows and balconies connect each apartment to the outside. Sandstone, oxidised metals and timber flow from the exterior to the interior, contrasting with furnishings clad in soft leathers, silks and velvets.

 

 

 

A new fourth level on the rooftop contains a pool, two rooftop suites and the generously proportioned Sydney suite.

Various extra amenities have been designed for guests to enhance their stay, such as an early arrivals lounge, which contains shower facilities and beds to allow guests to relax while they wait for their room to be ready.

Art has been integral to the hotel’s re-design. Numerous local artists were commissioned to create prints, photographs, sculptures, cloisonné, and carved sandstone works especially for the hotel.

 

Artworks pay homage to the hotel’s location, as well as the materials used in the revamp.

“These artworks create a counterpoint to the compelling views of Sydney, simultaneously enriching and grounding the design through their unique interpretations of place,” says Beck.

Interior photography: Richard Glover. Exterior: Peter Bennetts

BARStudio
barstudio.com

HASSELL
hassellstudio.com